Comparison of the Effects of Systemic Cryotherapy and Kinesiotaping on Speed and Jumping Ability of Men Practicing Targeted Physical Training

Aim:The aim of the study was to compare the effects of systemic cryotherapy and kinesiotaping on the speed and jumping ability of men who practice, due to their job, targeted and specialized physical training. They were members of special groups: Government Protection Bureau, Bureau of Anti-Terrorist Organization. Material and Methods:The study group consisted of 35 men [age 27-55 years (AVG 40 +/- 7)]. Motor performance assessment recognized in the Health-related fitness system: speed was assessed by the tapping-test: the number of crosses drawn on paper for 20 seconds was recorded (Tt). Jumpiness, was measured by the height of the reach jump from a standing position with an upper limb sweep (CMJ) - Taping of the superficial toe flexor of the leading upper limb was performed using the muscle method, followed by a taping test. Taping of gastrocnemius and patellar flexor muscles of the calf of the leading lower limb using the muscle method, followed by a jumping test. Then, additionally, muscle taping of the muscles of the other limb was performed analogously and the same test was performed again. After a week break, each subject received a series of 20 cryotherapy treatments. Treatment once a day for 5 days, and a break at the weekend. Duration of 1 treatment 2 min, temperature -130 degrees C, 10 treatments were completed by the full study group, 20 treatments were completed by 23 patients. Measurements of all motoric features were made after the 10th and 20th treatments of cryotherapy, and the jumping ability additionally after the 1st and 15th treatments. After each cryostimulation treatment, the patient exercised on a stationary cycloergometer. Results:There was a significant increase in speed from baseline values for each pair of measurements (Wilcoxon's test, p<0.0001). The comparison of the results of the jumping test after kinesiotaping and cryostimulation shows that the jumping ability increases after kinesiotaping - average 52+10 cm, and the effect is enhanced by taping the muscles of both limbs - average 54+10 cm (Wilcoxon's test, p<0.0001). Cryostimulation improves jumping ability, with the strongest effect after 10 treatments - average 53+11 cm. Conclusions: 1. The use of kinesiotaping and systemic cryostimulation improves speed. 2. Cryostimulation has a stronger effect, and the effect is intensified with the number of treatments applied. 3. Jumping increases after kinesiotaping, and the effect is intensified with the taping of muscles of both limbs. 4. Cryostimulation similarly improves jumping ability - 10 treatments are the most effective.